AutoCodes – Generic – P1656

P1656 Code - Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

Quick Answer

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system controls the intake valve timing to proper timing in response to driving condition. Common causes include Faulty Oil Control Valve (OCV), Oil Control Valve (OCV) harness is open or shorted, Oil Control Valve (OCV) circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P1656 indicates Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Oil Control Valve (OCV), Oil Control Valve (OCV) harness is open or shorted, Oil Control Valve (OCV) circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 28,871
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 06, 2019
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Code P1656 Description

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system controls the intake valve timing to proper timing in response to driving condition. The Engine Control Module (ECM) controls Oil Control Valve (OCV) to make the intake valve timing properly, and, oil pressure controlled with OCV is supplied to the VVT controller, and then, VVT controller changes relative position between the camshaft and the crankshaft.
OBDII Code P1656 - Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction - AutoCodes.com
P1656 Code - Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1656?

  • Faulty Oil Control Valve (OCV)
  • Oil Control Valve (OCV) harness is open or shorted
  • Oil Control Valve (OCV) circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P1656?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1656 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P1656 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1656 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1656 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P1656 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1656 (Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction)?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, decreased fuel efficiency, and in some cases, the Check Engine light may illuminate.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1656?

- The code P1656 can be triggered by issues such as a faulty oil control valve, wiring or connection problems, low engine oil levels, or a malfunctioning Engine Control Module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P1656?

- To diagnose the cause of P1656, a technician may perform a visual inspection of the oil control valve and associated wiring, conduct tests using a multimeter, and check the engine oil level and quality.

4. Can I continue driving my vehicle with OBDII code P1656?

- It is not recommended to continue driving your vehicle with code P1656 as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential damage. It's best to address the problem promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1656?

- Repairing code P1656 may involve replacing the oil control valve, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connections, ensuring proper engine oil levels, and resetting the fault code using a diagnostic tool.

6. Are there any DIY tips for addressing OBDII code P1656?

- DIY tips for P1656 may include checking and tightening loose connections, inspecting the oil control valve for debris or blockages, and ensuring the engine oil is at the correct level and in good condition.

7. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine light after fixing OBDII code P1656?

- Yes, it is safe to reset the Check Engine light after fixing code P1656. This can be done using a diagnostic tool to clear the fault code and turn off the warning light.

8. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1656?

- The time required to repair P1656 can vary depending on the underlying cause and complexity of the issue. In general, it may take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours for diagnosis and repair.

9. Can weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P1656?

- Extreme weather conditions such as very low temperatures can potentially affect the functioning of the oil control valve and lead to the triggering of code P1656.

10. Will OBDII code P1656 cause permanent damage to my vehicle if left untreated?

- Ignoring and leaving code P1656 untreated can potentially lead to engine performance issues and damage over time. It's important to address the problem promptly to prevent further complications.

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